SEKAKOH has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive and accountable forest governance by participating in the first National Consultation Workshop for the designation of civil society representatives to the Forest Governance Monitoring Committee (CS-GF).

Organised by the Field Legality Advisory Group (FLAG), the workshop took place on 28 and 29 July 2026 at the Welcome Garden Hotel in Soa, Cameroon.

The event brought civil society organisations together to discuss their role in monitoring forest governance and to select representatives who will speak on behalf of civil society within the committee.

Strengthening Civil Society Participation

SEKAKOH was represented by its Fundraising and Partnership Lead, who contributed to discussions on transparency, accountability and inclusive participation in the management of Cameroon’s forests.

Civil society organisations play an important role in connecting national forest policies with the realities experienced by local and forest-dependent communities. Their participation helps strengthen independent monitoring, promote access to information and ensure that community concerns are considered in decision-making.

Independent civil society monitoring has long contributed to oversight within Cameroon’s forest sector, including through organisations such as FLAG and PAPEL. The European Forest Institute’s Forest Governance Index recognises civil society’s role in monitoring forest use and management in Cameroon.

For SEKAKOH, effective forest governance must include the people who live closest to the forest and depend on its resources for their livelihoods, culture and wellbeing.

Civil Society Representatives Elected

The two-day consultation concluded with the election of three organisations as civil society representatives to the Forest Governance Monitoring Committee:

• AJESH
• Field Legality Advisory Group (FLAG)
• PAPEL

Their selection represents an important step towards structured civil society participation in monitoring forest governance processes.

These representatives will carry the responsibility of promoting civil society perspectives, strengthening accountability and helping ensure that forest governance decisions reflect both national priorities and community realities.

Keeping Communities at the Centre

Cameroon’s forests support exceptional biodiversity while also providing food, water, medicine, income and cultural value to millions of people.

Protecting these forests requires more than policies developed at the national level. It requires open communication, reliable monitoring and meaningful participation by local communities, Indigenous Peoples, civil society organisations and public institutions.

SEKAKOH remains committed to working alongside elected representatives, government institutions and other partners to advance participatory forest governance.

Through collaboration, advocacy and community engagement, we will continue supporting a system in which local communities have a strong voice in decisions affecting their forests and natural resources.

SEKAKOH: Building partnerships, strengthening communities and protecting nature.